I’m a big fan of cinema, and I think there’s nothing better than a good movie that, in addition to entertainment, offers a good dose of inspiration and motivation for action. While I’m against watching TV mindlessly, there are a whole bunch of movies that, by showing the fate of the main characters (often based on true stories), my convince you that you can do a lot of interesting and great things in your life.
What I like most about the videos shown below is that they convey the principles of success through an interesting story. You can often hear and read that the basic principles of success are hard, regular work, and following your passion. This is true, and there is nothing better than a great movie featuring a great story related to the realization of dreams and the achievement of goals. So what are the best motivational movies?
Below, there is my subjective selection of the best motivational movies that will get you moving and achieve your goals:
Forrest Gump
Do you think you are different and not good for anything? The amazing story of Forrest Gump will show you everything is possible. Forrest Gump is a man with very low IQ who achieves amazing things through his actions and a slightly different approach to life. An absolute classic of cinema and excellent entertainment at the highest level.
Catch me if you can
A life-based story about a counterfeiter and a swindler…, which, however, gives a great kick, motivates to take action and to think a little differently than everyone around. The eponymous crook, Frank, proves that many of his achievements (not necessarily legal) are also due to hard and smart work. In addition, the film contains a good dose of humour and entertainment.
Rocky
The story of Rocky Balboa along with the entire series of films featuring him are considered classics of cinema. It is an amazing dose of motivation to fight in the ring and in life at the same time. Sylvester Stallone himself and his efforts in making this film are a brilliant example of faith in one’s own dreams. I also recommend the sequels, Creed.
Pumping Iron
Want to spend some time with Arnold Schwarzenegger? In this video, you have the chance to do so. This documentary (with a bit of fiction) shows how Arnold Schwarzenegger achieved his success in the body-building world in the 1970s. If you are looking for motivation (not just for exercise) this is a must-have piece.
The Wolf of Wall Street
Once again, a character played by Leonardo DiCaprio who is anything but honest. However, the film is worth seeing because of the vast world of finance and the main characters’ approach to life. The plot (based on a true story) shows that you don’t necessarily have to follow the beaten path and still you can achieve great goals. Once again, you can see breaking the law makes you end up in prison sooner or later, and this too should be kept in mind. Plus, top-notch entertainment!
The Revenant
A beautiful and violent film about survival. The eponymous character, Hugh Glass (a real-life character) shows you can achieve virtually anything with the full force of your will. Left in the wilderness to fend for himself, the protagonist decides to fight for his life and with his persistence fights even the greatest adversity emerging from the wilderness and his opponents.
Shawshank Redemption
This movie tells a story about a wrongly convicted banker who must survive in the prison world. The story spans decades and shows how an elaborate plan and its execution over the years, step by step every day, can lead to the goal and to freedom.
The Wrestler
A film about dreams and passion for wrestling. The main character is forced to give up wrestling after having a heart attack. However, his enthusiasm does not allow him to come to terms with reality and he decides not to give up. A beautiful story of struggle to the very end illustrated in a very simple and raw way.
Only the Brave
A beautiful story set in Arizona, USA. Here, we see the story of a group of fire-fighters (all of whom really existed) who follow their passion and dreams. They work and train hard every day to be able to help others and fight fires. Their enthusiasm, however, puts them in great danger. Also, the movie provides an interesting way to present the stories of individual heroes who become better people through their discipline and team work.
Darkest Hour
The story of Winston Churchill, who is elected Prime Minister of Great Britain in 1940. He has to face Hitler, World War II and many people who do not believe in his abilities. We can how a person with less-than-ideal appearance and a craving for alcohol puts the country back on its feet and raises the fighting spirit among citizens.